Cancun is truly diverse in what it has to offer. Whether you’re a beach-lover, a water explorer, or interested in historical ruins, a trip to Cancun is sure to leave you satisfied and with fond memories to last a lifetime. We have compiled a list of some great options on what to do in Cancun, suitable for the solo travelers, the couples, and the large families!
Located on the northeast coast of Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is known for its paradisiac white sand beaches, tranquil clear waters, and dreamy beach locations. Although Cancun is most certainly a prime destination for relaxation and recreation, the biodiverse city is extremely rich in history and culture and is bursting with exciting activities and tours that the whole family will love!
Visit Chichen Itza
Recently being nominated as one of the new 7 wonders of the world and UNESCO Heritage Site, Chichen Itza is one of Yucatan Peninsula’s largest ancient Mayan sites that’s located in the sublime area of Riviera Maya. Chichen Itza is located a two-hour drive inland from Cancun.
Founded in the 6th Century, Chichen Itza attracts thousands of tourists to its enchanting and mythical site each year. It’s home to numerous ancient buildings, all of which tell a tale and are still in impressively great condition. These buildings include The Temple of Warriors, El Caracol, the Great Ball Court, and the most popular – El Castillo (The Castle).
El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, upholds a special kind of magic. The Temple of Kukulkan represents a snake deity (a supernatural divine being, such as a God or Goddess), which is thought to represent the nature of Yucatan. The base of temple features two snake heads that are said to be representations of Kukulkan.
Twice a year on the Spring and Autumn equinoxes, the vivid afternoon sun casts down over the Kukulkan and creates a shadow replicating a snake slithering down the temple. Hundreds of tourists visit Chichen Itza specifically to see this stunning rarity each year!
Chichen Itza is a truly impressive and mesmerizing site and gives an enchanting nostalgia of ancient Mayan life.
Underground River System in Xcaret
Immerse yourself in one of the enchanting and mystical underground river systems, where the captivating blue waters, ancient rock and cave formations, and exotic jungle plants will leave you feeling mesmerized.
Xcaret is home to three natural underground rivers: the Mayan River, the Manatee River, and the Blue River. Each river has its own magical and bewitching trail to follow, but all end up leading to the ocean, next to the incredible mangrove ecosystems that are also inhabited by the beautiful pink flamingo!
The rivers in Xcaret are an average depth of 5ft and 16ft below the ground. There are exits located along each trail and you’ll be given a life jacket to wear. This is such a thrilling and magical day out for the whole family, and a totally unique experience that can’t be matched!
Isla Mujeres Day Trip
Isla Mujeres is a paradisiacal island located a 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun. The small yet adventurous island is known for its picturesque white sand beaches. Sublime clear waters that are perfect for water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddle boarding, and having a laid-back ambience. The island is rich in Mayan culture and historical relevance, with a number of ancient ruins still in preservation.
The island has numerous bohemian styled restaurants where you can enjoy delicious, piquant seafood such as coconut shrimp or ceviche, and delight in a thirst-quenching beverage while sitting under the swaying palm trees.
There is however, so much more to do at Isla Mujeres than just spend the day at the beach. Rent a golf cart and explore the 5-mile long island in style, discover the islands unique art and architecture, dive and marvel at the island’s underwater museum, visit the sea turtles at the turtle sanctuary, or get your adrenaline pumping while ziplining! The adventure is endless at Isla Mujeres!
Explore Cancun’s Hotel Zone
The hotel zone in Cancun is known for its vibrant nightlife, fantastic signature restaurants, nearby beach clubs, and large variety of retail stores. It has been said the ambience of the hotel zone in Cancun is comparable to the strip in Las Vegas, yet more tropical and with energetic Mexican culture.
You will find a spirited shopping village in the hotel zone, along with a small and enchanting aquarium and a selection of restaurants. You can also visit Cancun’s Scenic Tower (the Torre Esencia) within walking distance of the hotel zone, which offers outstanding views of the Caribbean coast and Cancun. An expert guide will talk you through the exciting history of Cancun and its growth as the 300ft tall tower slowly spins 360 degrees, offering an outstanding birds-eye view.
Located in the heart of the hotel zone is the colossus that is Coco Bongo! Famous for its robust and thrilling parties with an open bar, Coco Bongo puts on a spectacular show of flying acrobatics, outstanding music tributes, and high-resolution big screens!
Tulum Ruins
The dreamy area of Tulum is one of Cancun’s best-preserved attractions. Located a 2.5hr drive down south, Tulum’s stunning white sand beaches, crystalline waters, wonderous sea life, and bohemian ambience attracts thousands of tourists each year.
Tulum is rich in Mayan history and culture and is home to an astounding must-see historical site that is mounted on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the wonderful Caribbean Sea. Tulum was once a walled and gated city that protected the high priests, nobles and esteemed citizens, while the lower class were forced to live outside of the gated area in poorer conditions.
The buildings were once decorated with carvings and vivid artwork, some of which are still preserved to this day. The ancient ruins in Tulum showcase incredible Mayan architecture and an insight into Mayan life.
After exploring the site, you can visit the mystical underground river system and delight in the crystal-clear waters while pondering and basking in the nostalgia of ancient Mayan life!
Swimming in Cenotes
Cenotes are natural freshwater pools that were formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. The Mayan’s settled near Cenotes and gave them sacred use as they believed that they were passages to meet the gods.
It’s easy to see why they were deemed as something supernatural. Cenotes are extremely enchanting and magical, like something depicted from a fairytale. They have sapphire blue waters that are fresh from the underground, vines and exotic plants that hang delicately overhead and cast shadows and patterns, and the sweet melodies of wildlife call above.
The rich aquatic waters allow for an abundance of exploration and adventure, including activities such as snorkeling, canoeing, paddle boarding, and scuba diving!
Villa del Palmar Cancun Resort
Still wondering what to do in Cancun? At Villa del Palmar Cancun, we want to ensure that you have the most enjoyable vacation possible. Besides being a haven for relaxation and recreation, with our world-class resort spa, gleaming swimming pools, and picturesque beach area, our family-friendly hotel also has a weekly activity schedule packed with fun activities to keep the whole family entertained!
While in Cancun, why not merge yourself into the Mexican culture and take a dance lesson specializing in cultural styles, a cooking class led by our professional chefs, or scrub up on your Spanish during a Spanish lesson?
For children, our kids club is bursting with educational and exciting activities, ranging from sandcastle competitions to eco-arts and crafts lessons! Our team also hosts gardening classes, a survival class, a kite making class, and a movie night!
There really is so much more to do in Cancun, Mexico than just take a trip to the beautiful beaches. A trip to Cancun can be full of fun and adventure! The area is brimming with history and culture and an array of thrilling activities await you!
